Mohanlal Reflects on Contemporary Cinema and His Approach to Films

Veteran actor Mohanlal, a towering figure in Indian cinema with nearly five decades of illustrious contributions, recently shared his perspective on why many modern films fail to resonate with audiences. In a candid interview with Galatta Plus, the actor delved into the challenges faced by contemporary filmmakers, the evolution of storytelling, and his selective approach to choosing projects, especially with new directors.

On Why Today’s Films Struggle

Mohanlal highlighted a key gap in modern cinema: the lack of compelling subjects. While praising the technical expertise and talent of today’s directors, he noted that storytelling often lacks the depth and emotional resonance seen in older films.

“The new generation watched older films, and when they compare the new films to it, they find more drama, sentiments, and humour,” said Mohanlal.

Reflecting on his collaborations with legendary filmmakers like Bharatan, Mani Ratnam, and Padmarajan, Mohanlal emphasized the rich variety of roles he had the privilege to play in the past, spanning commercial hits, action-packed dramas, and heartfelt comedies. He likened the legacy of these films to a financial asset:

“We have created that asset. It is like the deposit we made, and we are surviving on the interest we are receiving.”

Working with Prithviraj Sukumaran

Mohanlal spoke highly of Prithviraj Sukumaran, who directed him in the 2022 film Bro Daddy. He acknowledged Prithviraj’s meticulous and demanding approach to filmmaking:

“Prithviraj is an amazing director. He knows about the equipment, lenses, actors, and he will keep asking for shots until he is convinced. It is quite tough to work with him because you have to surrender yourself to him.”

Despite the challenges, Mohanlal appreciates directors who push for perfection, even at the cost of an actor’s comfort.

On Other Directors and Working with New Talent

The actor also praised Blessy, with whom he has collaborated extensively, calling him “an amazing director.” However, Mohanlal revealed why he is cautious about working with new directors.

“What goes wrong with them is when they come to me with scripts, I find Mohanlal in it, so I don’t take it up.”

This statement underscores Mohanlal’s preference for roles that transcend his established persona, allowing him to explore uncharted territories in acting.

Directorial Debut with Barroz

Mohanlal is set to make his directorial debut with Barroz, a fantasy drama slated for release on December 25, 2024. As a passion project, this marks a significant milestone in his career, showcasing his versatility as both an actor and a filmmaker.

Key Takeaways from Mohanlal’s Interview

1. Storytelling Over Style: While modern cinema boasts technical brilliance, compelling stories remain the cornerstone of great films.
2. Legacy and Evolution: Mohanlal credits the past generation of filmmakers for setting high storytelling standards.
3. Selective Choices: His reluctance to accept roles that align too closely with his established image highlights his commitment to artistic growth.
4. Mentorship and Collaboration: Despite his stature, Mohanlal continues to value collaborative growth, whether with seasoned directors or younger talents like Prithviraj.

What to Expect from Barroz

As audiences eagerly await the release of Barroz, expectations are high for the fantasy drama that promises to reflect Mohanlal’s creative vision and narrative ingenuity.